Schizophrenia Research Foundation(I)

The organisation offers an outpatient service where clients receive a comprehensive psychological and physical assessment during their initial visit with the case manager and consultant psychiatrist. Operating from 9.30 am to 01.00 pm, five days a week (excluding Tuesdays and second Saturdays and Sundays), its primary goal is to engage closely with clients and their families, providing education about the illness, along with medication and therapy. Notably, the organisation runs a dedicated program for First Episode Psychosis, catering to individuals aged 18-35 who are either untreated or have had less than a month of medication exposure. This programme is managed by a multidisciplinary team comprising a psychiatrist, psychiatric social worker, psychologist, nurses, and rehabilitation personnel.

SCARF India, offers a range of education and training programmes. Notably, it has been accredited by the National Board of Examinations (NBE) to conduct Postgraduate Training in Psychiatry since 2009, welcoming two students annually. These students have excelled in their examinations, with Ms Yamini Kannappan (2009 Batch) and Ms Sindhu Maran (2017 Batch) receiving the prestigious Dr. Sarada Menon Gold Medal for Psychiatry. Additionally, SCARF provides a Diploma in Mental Health and offers training for mental health professionals, including workshops on interventions for both national and international students, covering fields such as psychology, social work, occupational therapy, and nursing.

SCARF India's initiative, known as FRAME OF MIND, represents an innovative effort to foster healthy attitudes and raise awareness regarding mental health and associated concerns. Its primary goal is to challenge and rectify the stereotypes and overused portrayals of mental illnesses often seen in movies, instead promoting positive and true-to-life representations. As part of this endeavour, FRAME OF MIND includes a competition category for short films that explore various aspects of mental health, welcoming participation from students, aspiring filmmakers, and individuals passionate about this issue. These submitted films are assessed by a panel of distinguished media and mental health experts, who select the best entries for cash prizes. Furthermore, all shortlisted films are showcased during the festival, contributing to a wider understanding of mental health issues.

CARF India's Sri T S Santhanam Centre for Elderly Care at Tambaram offers a dementia-friendly environment with 20 beds and a design influenced by Stirling University, UK. It includes various facilities like wards, an activity room, consultation and therapy spaces, and a rooftop garden, equipped with solar panels, CCTV cameras, a kitchen, and lifts. A multidisciplinary team of medical professionals supports the residents. The centre was made possible through generous land donations and contributions from companies.

SCARF operates three residential centres with a combined capacity of 150 beds: Bhavishya Bhavan in Thiruverkadu, Bhagwan Mahavir Manav Sanmarga Seva Kendra in Mahabalipuram, and the Sarada Menon Centre in Anna Nagar. These centres provide care for mentally disabled individuals and the elderly, thanks to various donors and supporters.

SCARF India runs a Day Care program aimed at individuals with mental illnesses. This programme engages participants in various activities such as crafting, gardening, yoga, and more, with the primary goals of symptom control, reducing disability, improving functioning, and supporting recovery. Notably, the programme is provided free of charge and includes transportation. It typically serves 60-70 attendees and offers cash incentives based on specific criteria. Services offered encompass vocational training, need-based skill development, self-employment opportunities, income generation initiatives, as well as special services like yoga and domestic chores. The focus is on vocational rehabilitation tailored to the individual's preferences, featuring graded skill training, diverse work units, assistance in securing open employment, and establishing sustainable job placements by connecting with employers.